Syrian Arab News Agency S A N A
Damascus, SANA- German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock affirmed that the official opening of the German embassy in Damascus on Thursday means a long-term commitment to Syria, and that the staff there will gradually expand, noting that Germany supports the political process in Syria to achieve peace for all its citizens.
During a press conference held in Damascus on Thursday, Baerbock noted that her country would support Syria politically and economically and would stand by the Syrian people, and She noted that the first steps toward unifying the country had been taken, and that subsequent steps would be achieved in partnership with all components of society.
Baerbock articulated that her country pledged 300 million euros at the Brussels conference as part of its efforts to achieve economic stability in Syria, and that the Syrian people need support and reconstruction, pointing out that the political process in the country must include all components, sects, and ethnicities before refugees can return, and that Syria must belong to all Syrians.
She pointed out that Iran is one of the main parties violating Syrian sovereignty and that it is involved in the recent events on the coast, noting that her country called on the government to prosecute those responsible for the crimes and hold accountable those involved in the recent violence in the Syrian coastal provinces.
Regarding Israeli attacks on Syrian territory, Baerbock stressed the need for Israel to respect international law, noting that attacks on Syria and its territory threaten stability and violate international law.
She considered that there could be no common or secure future in Syria unless justice was achieved, noting that the scene of massive destruction in Jobar area was similar to many places across the country.
Baerbock clarified that Syrian citizens are suffering from a severe shortage of basic necessities, most importantly energy infrastructure, including electricity, adding that Germany wants to continue its support, especially in the energy sector, and that gradually reducing European sanctions could help the Syrian economy.
She stressed that it was necessary for the European Union to take gradual steps to ease sanctions in order to begin the reconstruction process.
Nisreeb Othman / Fedaa
